Patriotism

Help with candidate petitioning to get us on the Ballot! If your available for a few hours in the morning or afternoon we can use help at the Falls Church Memorial Day Festival and Parade to get signatures for our 8th Congressional District Candidate Shelli Arnoldi. Start times for Morning would be at 10:00 am or Afternoon between Noon- 1pm. Invest as much time as you want /can with the holiday. RSVP below and our Chair will get in touch with more details. It's also a great event to enjoy during and afterwards! Details below: [Memorial Day Parade & Festival | Falls Church, VA](https://www.fallschurchva.gov/645/Memorial-Day-Festival-Parade)

Memorial Day History Tour of the National Mall & White House Neighborhood! Examine 250 years of U.S. history in this unique walking tour, on Memorial Day, around the National Mall & White House. MEET outside the National Theater, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 Our packed itinerary will draw from: o The locale where the most famous military anthem was written o The World War One memorial park o How the White House was secretly designed o The Kennedy Center star who was a war hero at Yorktown o The humble woman who faced down an enemy general o The official who brokered America's first Civil War--of 1794 o Civil War spies o Presidential humor o Where Frederick Douglass worked after recruiting troops for the Union Army o Sites of presidential assassination attempts o How Lafayette was saved by an American President o The Union sea captain who nearly lost the Civil War o Where Dolley Madison saved the National Archives o General Jackson's battles and duels o The greatest of the early U.S. Navy heroes o The secret of George Washington's martinet o How the "Paul Revere of the South" saved the American Revolution o The scoundrel who saved the Battle of Gettysburg o The battle of Army generals vs. Army veterans o The house of astronauts and scientists o The greatest caregiver to America's soldiers. o The White House racetrack o Thrilling monuments to the military's most valiant units. And more! Preregister and Prepay via: Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/memorial-day-tour-of-the-national-mall-white-house-neighborhood-dc-tickets-1989339939310?aff=oddtdtcreator Or send $23 via PayPal to: paypal.me/EMoser460 Or, pay in cash at the tour's start: $23. Your guide is a former Presidential speechwriter, former Tonight Show writer, and author of a Second World War spy novel: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel/dp/B0F5NPSKDS/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0 And of The White House's Unruly Neighborhood: https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7 And a forthcoming book on Georgetown's history: https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/georgetown-on-the-potomac/ MEET outside the National Theater, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 Celebrate U.S. military history, and more, on Memorial Day, at some of America's most memorable locales.

\*\*Holiday smackdown!\*\* Let's return to one of our favorite spots to play - William Jeffrey's Tavern! WJT is a real good venue for playing the popular Pour House Trivia game. This place is less noisy than many trivia venues, and they have real good food! It is a 7:00 pm game, but you should try to arrive at least 15 minutes earlier to find us and get settled. There might be some street parking available, but there is also a parking garage for the building around back with free validated parking. The place is also on a frequent bus line from Pentagon City metro. This event is limited to seven people, so sign up now to save your spot for this fun trivia option!

Come watch [Belgium vs. Iran on](https://www.volosports.com/d/f49d0a23-51f1-40e8-b3c8-3b60dbacb1e2) **[Sunday, June 21st at 3pm at Wunder Garten](https://www.volosports.com/d/f49d0a23-51f1-40e8-b3c8-3b60dbacb1e2).** **What you can expect:** Great soccer and vibes 🍺 **2 Free Anheuser-Busch products** i.e. Michelob Ultra, NUTRL, Bud Light, Budweiser **Limited edition World Cup merchandise for giveaway and raffle** 🔥 Exclusive, soccer themed Volo Pass swag (Members Only, [sign up here](https://www.volosports.com/volo-pass)) Bring your friends, wear your Belgium or Iran gear, and come ready to celebrate, cheer, and enjoy the game together! Note: General admission and entry to Wunder Garten is free, but the immersive Volo experience and perks are available only this registration.

We have returned to live, in-person meetings! That means we are able to give our presentations to a **live** audience. We can look people in the eyes and use body language to share our message. If you have been missing this type of communication skills building, come to our meetings to experience it with us! ............ The Jim Whitney Club meets twice per month, on the second and fourth Mondays. We are attracting new members with our fun and educational program. Visit us. Walk our path with us. Go to https://jwtm.toastmastersclubs.org/ for more information about us. Toastmasters will change your life. This club was formed in memory of a wonderful man who had a talent for recruiting new members and building new clubs. We have energetic, organized, and productive meetings so that we may showcase the value of being a Toastmaster. Get directions to our meetings and learn more about us by visiting our website: http://toastmasterjim.toastmastersclubs.org/

Memorial Day History Tour of the National Mall & White House Neighborhood! Examine 250 years of U.S. history in this unique walking tour, on Memorial Day, around the National Mall & White House. Changing the venue to check out the 12 new statues of the American Revolution at Freedom Plaza....MEET outside the National Theater, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 Our packed itinerary will draw from: o The locale where the most famous military anthem was written o The World War One memorial park o How the White House was secretly designed o The Kennedy Center star who was a war hero at Yorktown o The humble woman who faced down an enemy general o The official who brokered America's first Civil War--of 1794 o Civil War spies o Presidential humor o Where Frederick Douglass worked after recruiting troops for the Union Army o Sites of presidential assassination attempts o How Lafayette was saved by an American President o The Union sea captain who nearly lost the Civil War o Where Dolley Madison saved the National Archives o General Jackson's battles and duels o The greatest of the early U.S. Navy heroes o The secret of George Washington's martinet o How the "Paul Revere of the South" saved the American Revolution o The scoundrel who saved the Battle of Gettysburg o The battle of Army generals vs. Army veterans o The house of astronauts and scientists o The greatest caregiver to America's soldiers. o The White House racetrack o Thrilling monuments to the military's most valiant units. And more! Preregister and Prepay via: Eventbrite: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/memorial-day-tour-of-the-national-mall-white-house-neighborhood-dc-tickets-1989339939310?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/memorial-day-tour-of-the-national-mall-white-house-neighborhood-dc-tickets-1989339939310?aff=oddtdtcreator) Or send $23 via PayPal to: [paypal.me/EMoser460](http://paypal.me/EMoser460) Or, pay in cash at the tour's start: $23. Your guide is a former Presidential speechwriter, former Tonight Show writer, and author of a Second World War spy novel: [https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit](https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit)é-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel/dp/B0F5NPSKDS/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0 And of The White House's Unruly Neighborhood: [https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7](https://www.amazon.com/White-Houses-Unruly-Neighborhood-Lafayette-ebook/dp/B082ZVDCD7) And a forthcoming book on Georgetown's history: [https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/georgetown-on-the-potomac/](https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/georgetown-on-the-potomac/) MEET outside the National Theater, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 Celebrate U.S. history, and more, on Memorial Day, at some of America's most memorable locales.

To secure your spot, RSVP on Eventbrite link for free ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/live-band-karaoke-and-contest-tickets-650453934227](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/live-band-karaoke-and-contest-tickets-650453934227)). RSVPing only on the Meetup Page doesn't allow you to attend the Event. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. ABOUT THE EVENT Embrace your inner diva and flaunt your vocals all night! Whatever you want to sing, we want to hear it. The entire group accompanies you when you sing and we will be your background singers. Don’t sing, no problem. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show. Need a little liquid courage? We have you covered. Before taking the stage, we’ll have plenty of drink specials. You’ll be sure to work up an appetite, so we will also feature food specials all night. Grab your friends and get ready to be the star of the show. Dress code : Weekend Casual Event is free and 21+ * Come one, come all; YOU COULD FLY SOLO TOO:) This is the most friendliest event you have ever attended! * Feel free to invite your friends. They don't necessarily have to be a member * Ideal for either you are new in town or not, to make friends and acquaintances * RSVP on Meetup is required. That is how we check you in. However, no need to sign up on Eventbrite or any other social media platform or ticket link. * We will have a registration station and check you in. * * METRO & PARKING INFO : Clarendon Metro Station is a block away. Parking might be a challenge and the event involves drinking, we highly recommend you to get a shared ride or taxi service. DRINK RESPONSIBLY! http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/7/5/6/600_434918742.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/1/3/6/600_418768982.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/7/9/c/600_434918812.jpeg

Come cheer on Sadio Mané and Senegal as they take on Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, Matt Freese and the US squad in the [second to last World Cup Warm Up game at on ](https://www.volosports.com/d/29a4ea97-04ac-4fb1-8224-06be8a4aad55)**[Sunday, May 31st 3:30pm at Wunder Garten](https://www.volosports.com/d/29a4ea97-04ac-4fb1-8224-06be8a4aad55).** This game also serves at the beginning of Volo's World Cup watch parties. We're excited to partnering with Wunder Garten, as they will be Volo's headquarters for the World Cup and are FIFA's official home for the games in DC. You can expect a fully immersive and fun experience. **What you can expect:** Great soccer and vibes 🍺 **2 Free Anheuser-Busch products** i.e. Michelob Ultra, NUTRL, Bud Light, Budweiser **Limited edition World Cup merchandise for giveaway and raffle** 🔥 Exclusive, soccer themed Volo Pass swag (Members Only, [sign up here](https://www.volosports.com/volo-pass)) Bring your friends, wear your USA or Senegal gear, and come ready to celebrate, cheer, and enjoy the game together! Note: General admission and entry to Wunder Garten is free, but the immersive Volo experience and perks are available only this registration.

Let's recognize the 82th anniversary of the WWII D-Day landings at Normandy (France). Hosted by the **Alexandria-Caen (France) Sister City Committee**, this ceremony and commemoration event takes place on John Carlyle Square in Old Town. There will be re-enactors, historical displays, a 1940's jazz band and swing dancing, the US Army Fife and Drum Corps and more. I was stationed in Paris for 25 months and attended the 20th Anniversary of the Liberation of Paris, 24 August 1964. I was in a photograph on the front page of the NY Herald Tribune along with 400,000 other people crammed onto the Place de la Concorde. **WOW!** D-Day, June 6, 1944, marked the largest amphibious invasion in military history and the beginning of the Allied liberation of Nazi-occupied France. Known as Operation Neptune, the assault was the opening phase of Operation Overlord, the broader campaign to liberate Northwest Europe. Under the command of General Dwight D. Eisenhower, more than 156,000 Allied troops from the United States, Great Britain, and Canada landed along the Normandy coast across five beaches: Utah and Omaha (U.S.), Gold and Sword (British), and Juno (Canadian). Despite fierce German resistance, particularly at Omaha Beach, where some of the most intense fighting occurred, the Allies secured a foothold in Normandy by nightfall. The cost was heavy, with more than 4,500 Allied troops killed on the first day, including 2,499 Americans. Their sacrifice paved the way for the capture of Cherbourg, the battle for Caen, and the decisive Falaise Pocket in August 1944 which shattered German forces in France. Less than a year later, Nazi Germany surrendered on May 8, 1945. Though “D-Day” is a general military term for the launch of an operation, its scale and significance have made June 6, 1944, forever synonymous with courage, sacrifice, and a decisive turning point in World War II in Europe. Did you know? Most every French village in western France has a street named after its **DAY**! rue du 15 juin 1944; avenue du 5 juillet 1944; boulevard du 10 août 1944...the **DAY** of its liberation from German occupiers, as Allied forces swept through. A trip to Normandie is a required addition to everyone's bucket list. I'm a regular visiteur. We'll have an early diner together afterwards in the area.

Greetings from the capital! Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people from all walks of life — students, diplomats, travelers, locals — gather to unwind and connect. [[Click this whatsapp groupchat link to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JFESzopY1OgJ5z4r3RINfL)] Our age range is mostly 20s to 30s. If you enjoy discussing culture, politics, travel, or just want to practice a new language, this group is for you. A perfect blend of diversity and dialogue, right in the heart of D.C.

To secure your spot, purchase your ticket from the Eventbrite link ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/international-devt-affairs-and-ngos-hh-with-teetotalersstudents-pass-tickets-880368996367](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/international-devt-affairs-and-ngos-hh-with-teetotalersstudents-pass-tickets-880368996367)). RSVPing only on the Meetup Page doesn't allow you to attend the Event. ADVANCE TICKET PURCHASE IS REQUIRED. ABOUT THE EVENT This Happy Hour is devoted to professionals in the International Affairs and Development community, to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment to meet other International Affairs professionals to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in International Affairs and Development careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global development. METRO & PARKING INFO : The closest metro station is Woodley Park/Adams Morgan. Please check Metro's weekend truck work (https://www.wmata.com/) and plan accordingly. Street Parking might be a challenge. But if you plan to drive, try your luck on Champlain Street. Otherwise, there is a parking garage around. We highly recommend a shared ride or taxi service.

**Hey Everyone!** Due to the uncertain weather forecast for Sunday, May 24th, I am **............ POSTPONING our FREE HUGS GATHERING to ...............** **..................................... SUNDAY, MAY 31st!! .......................................** **I hope to see you then!** **LOTS OF FREE HUGS,** **Jeff** \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **YES! YES!! YES!!!** **FREE HUGS on the National Mall are happening again!!** **"Spreading More Love"** Here are two videos of past FREE HUGS gatherings: [FREE HUGS October 2017. 32 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh7v3zucDas) [FREE HUGS Veterans Day 2016. 58 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebTt9Q177zQ) **HEY EVERYONE!** Now that the Flu, COVID and RSV have subsided, we are **RESUMING OUR MONTHLY FREE HUGS GATHERINGS!!** FREE HUGS gatherings generate so much excitement, joy, appreciation, connection, peace, love, smiles, “Thank you’s,” lots of laughter and such positive energy!! Our FREE HUGS movement is all about "Spreading More Love" regardless of political, religious, racial or gender identification or any other identification. **!! IMPORTANT !!** We meet OUTSIDE of the National Museum of Natural History on the NATIONAL MALL SIDE OF THE MUSEUM near the Refreshment stand. ADDRESS: 1306 Madison Dr. NW · Washington, DC **PARKING:** On the street parking OR [Nearest Parking](https://washingtondc.bestparking.com/destinations/national-mall-parking) **METRO:** Smithsonian National Mall Metro Station (NOT Independence Ave.) **We hope you will join us for an AWESOME time!** **Lots of Hugs...jeff** 301-885-8259 (c) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Note 1: if you agree to participate in any FREE HUGS Event, you agree to the following terms: By choosing to attend this event, you are acknowledging the risks involved (COVID, etc.), and you are committing to participate nonviolently and in accordance with the law. You agree: (i) not to engage in any act of violence or violation of any applicable law (ii) to obey the orders of authorized event marshals and law enforcement authorities (iii) that any Meetup group will not be responsible to any injury or damage to your person or property resulting from or occurring in the course of your participating in the Event; and iv) to release and forever hold harmless Jeff Maurer, Meetup group and their respective employees and volunteers from liability for any such injury or damage. Note 2: FREE HUGS gatherings are 1. NOT for advertising our businesses; 2. NOT about promoting political or religious or racial or gender issues or any other issues.

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan

Join us as we get together to see the top-reviewed comedy-drama, I LOVE BOOSTERS! The film comes from writer/director Boots Riley and follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. Here are details, trailers and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. It is written/directed by Boots Riley (Sorry to Bother You) and stars Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza González, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, Don Cheadle, and Demi Moore. BUZZ AND ACCLAIM: I Love Boosters was the opening film at this year’s SXSW Festival and premiered to rave reviews! It is currently earning a tremendous 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes where critics call it, “an unexpected celebration of friendship, community, and solidarity.” Others call the film “an exercise in radical empathy,” a “masterful” and “optimistic” film designed to “provoke discussion” while making the audience laugh. TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c) SUMMER OF ICE CREAM: GRAETER’S! Established way back in 1870 in Cincinnati, this historic, family-owned brand is famous for their delicious small batch ice cream and any chocolate chunk flavors! They are currently the only commercial ice cream maker using the French Pot method that they’ve been using since they first opened! Plus, those chocolate chunks, oh my goodness! Vegan options are available. PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but Showtime and complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."